Mandalay

Mandalay
Name	Mandalay native_name = မန္တလေး native_name_lang = my image_skyline = Mandalay Palace.jpg image_alt = image_caption = Mandalay Palace coordinates = 21°58′30″N 96°04′30″E

Mandalay Mandalay is the second-largest city in Myanmar, located in the central part of the country. The city was founded in 1855 by King Mingun Kyawswa Hlaungdaw of the Konbaung dynasty and was the last royal capital of the Konbaung kingdom. Mandalay is situated on the east bank of the Irrawaddy River and is a major cultural and economic hub. The city's rich history and cultural heritage have made it a popular tourist destination.

History

Mandalay has a rich and complex history dating back to the 19th century. The city was founded in 1855 by King Mindon Min, who built the Mandalay Palace as the royal residence. The palace was constructed using traditional Burmese architecture and was the center of the Konbaung dynasty until the British colonization of Myanmar in 1885. During the Third Anglo-Burmese War, the city was captured by the British, and the Treaty of Yandabo was signed, marking the end of the Konbaung dynasty and the beginning of British rule in Myanmar. The city played a significant role in the Burmese resistance movement against British colonial rule.

Geography

Mandalay is located in the central part of Myanmar, situated on the east bank of the Irrawaddy River. The city is surrounded by the Mandalay Region and is approximately 716 km (445 miles) north of Yangon, the largest city in Myanmar. The city's terrain is characterized by a dry zone, with a mix of plains and hills. The Mandalay Hill, which offers stunning views of the city, is a prominent landmark.

Demographics

As of 2014, the population of Mandalay is approximately 1.08 million people. The city is a melting pot of different ethnic groups, including Bamar, Shan, Karen, and Chinese. The official language of the city is Burmese, but many other languages, including English, are also spoken.

Culture

Mandalay is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and its culture is deeply influenced by Theravada Buddhism. The city is home to many ancient temples, including the Kuthodaw Pagoda, which houses the world's largest Buddhist scriptures. The Mandalay Palace is another prominent cultural landmark, showcasing traditional Burmese architecture. The city celebrates many festivals throughout the year, including the Thingyan Water Festival, which marks the Burmese New Year.

Economy

Mandalay is a major economic hub in Myanmar, with a growing service sector, manufacturing industry, and agriculture. The city is a significant center for rice production, teak production, and handicrafts. The city's economy has been growing rapidly since the country's transition to a market-oriented economy in the 1990s. Mandalay is also a popular tourist destination, with many hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions.

Government and politics

Mandalay is governed by the Mandalay Region Government, which is responsible for the administration of the city and the surrounding region. The city is divided into townships, each with its own township government. The Mandalay City Development Committee is responsible for the city's urban planning and development. The city has a complex political history, with many political movements and protests taking place in the city, including the 2011-2012 Burmese protests. Aung San Suu Kyi, the National League for Democracy leader, has played a significant role in the city's politics.

Category:Mandalay